Do you have a deep commitment to the care and stewardship of Taoka Māori?

Invercargill City Council invites you to become a driving force in our future-focused team. With a vibrant atmosphere and an unwavering commitment to our values—positivity, respect, responsibility, and above and beyond—we're passionate about creating a team full of outstanding individuals who are as passionate about shaping the future as we are.

Te Unua Museum of Southland is where the stories, people and heritage of Murihiku come together. We are looking for a Kaitiaki - Mana Taoka to join our Collections Team and support the delivery of exceptional museum and heritage services in Murihiku Southland.

This position is dedicated to the care and management of Taoka Māori; and in making these treasured collections accessible to the people of Murihiku Southland. You will work closely with the four Rūnaka of Murihiku to ensure their contribution is recognised and embodied in the care of, and access to Taoka.

Based primarily at Te Pātaka Taoka Southern Regional Collections Facility, you will play a key role in supporting the delivery of Te Unua Museum of Southland. a new, landmark cultural destination currently under development in Waihōpai Invercargill.

What you will do:

• Ensure Taoka Māori are professionally cared for in accordance with tikanga, legislation and museum standards.
• Lead projects to improve collection care, including storage upgrades and packing improvements.
• Enable access to Taoka Māori through exhibition work, research, digital platforms and community engagement.
• Work closely with the Iwi Liaison Komiti and mana whenua to guide care and access practices.
• Support the repatriation and return of Taoka Māori to Murihiku.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with iwi, community groups and heritage organisations.
• Support Te Unua Museum of Southland project delivery, particularly in relation to collections and experience integration.
• Champion bicultural service delivery and authentic community partnerships.

What you will bring:

• Bachelor's degree in Arts, Sciences or a relevant field.
• Experience working in a museum, gallery or heritage environment with a focus on collections.
• Demonstrable experience working with Taoka Māori and understanding of cultural, physical and spiritual care.
• Competency in both written and verbal Te Reo me ōna tikanga.
• Experience working collaboratively with mana whenua and iwi Māori organisations.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of relevant museum ethics, legislation (e.g. Protected Objects Act), and best practice standards.
• Strong understanding of bicultural and multicultural aspects of our community.
• Ability to contribute to projects, manage registration tasks and support digital collections.

What we offer:

• Career progression and training/development opportunities
• Positive focus of employee health and well-being: Workstation assessments, free flu vaccines, EAP services, 50% off eye exams, discounted gym memberships etc
• Kiwisaver and Superannuation Schemes
• Access to sick leave from day one of employment
• Appointment time leave: Up to 2 hours for important appointments e.g. Doctor, bank, dentist

This is a permanent full-time position working 40 hours per week, primarily 8.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday, although flexibility to work outside of these hours is required.

Waihōpai Invercargill is New Zealand's southernmost city and the heart and hub of Southland. We're known for our lush green spaces, like award-winning Queens Park, our long summer daylight hours and our local legend Burt Munro. Our city has character, charm and a laidback atmosphere. There's outstanding nature reserves, Ōreti Beach and the Waihōpai River to explore plus our lively restaurants complemented by a thriving entertainment and arts scene which are hard to beat! The sensible gridded layout featuring wide streets ensures a convenient 10-minute drive to work. Who wouldn't want to call this place home?

Invercargill City Council is committed to the safety of children, the elderly, and vulnerable adults. As this position involves working with these groups, Police Vetting (under the Children's Act 2014) and a pre-employment drug and alcohol test are required to ensure a safe environment for all.

To learn more, view the full position description or contact Invercargill City Council at (03) 211 1777. Please note: applications submitted via SEEK will not be received. Apply online at Jobs - Invercargill City Council.

Applications close 23 November 2025. Please note applications will be processed as they are received and we encourage you to apply early as this advert may be removed at any time.

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. While all applications will be considered, preference will be given to candidates currently residing in New Zealand.